What makes Workin' Overtime by Diana Ross notable?

The album's title track, 'Workin' Overtime', became a dance hit, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot Dance Club Songs chart. Despite mixed critical reception, it highlighted Ross's adaptability in the evolving soundscape of late '80s pop and dance music. By 1989, Diana Ross was a seasoned artist navigating her solo career post-Supremes. 'Workin' Overtime' marked her return to the dance music scene after a few years focusing on acting and musical theater, showcasing her enduring appeal as a pop icon.

How many songs are on Workin' Overtime?

Workin' Overtime has 3 tracks, running approximately 18 minutes.

Workin' Overtime

Diana Ross · 1989

18 min · 3 tracks · jazz

Energetic dance beats collide with Diana Ross's soulful vocals, creating an infectious groove that captures the spirit of late '80s pop.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Workin' Overtime (7" version) — This track encapsulates the album's essence, blending catchy hooks with an uplifting rhythm that showcases Ross's vocal prowess and dance floor appeal.
→
Workin' Overtime (extended version) — The extended version amplifies the vibrant energy of the original, making it a staple in clubs and a testament to Ross's ability to command attention on the dance floor.
→
Workin' Overtime (club mix) — This club mix reimagines the title track for nightlife audiences, highlighting the era's dance culture and Ross's transition into electronic-infused sounds.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

The album blends dance grooves with soulful melodies, showcasing Ross's vocals but lacks standout compositions.

What we noticed

The first five tracks maintain a consistent dance tempo, while the latter half introduces slower ballads that create a contrast in energy.
Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies and call-and-response sections, emphasizing Ross's vocal range and charisma.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.